Innerthal on Lake Wägital

Innerthal lies on the northeastern shore of Lake Wägital in the upper Wägital valley. The lake is a reservoir, and its entire surface lies within the municipality. Innerthal is a mountain community in a basin surrounded by Gross Aubrig, Fluebrig, Mutteristock and Brünnelistock. The lake, mountain landscape and paths along the water or up into the mountains give visitors different ways to enjoy a stay here.

Lake Wägital and local history

The dam at Lake Wägital was completed in 1924. Most of the water stored in the lake is used to generate electricity in winter. When the reservoir filled, the original village of Innerthal was flooded in 1924. The new Church of St. Catherine was built at its present location in the same year. The small church invites visitors to pause for quiet reflection.

The Schrähbach Bridge also connects local history with engineering. South of the Schräh dam, it crosses the Schrähbach in a gentle curve and continues the road around Lake Wägital. The 59-metre-long reinforced-concrete bridge was designed by Swiss engineer and pioneer Robert Maillart. Its length, construction and location make it a tangible landmark in the history of infrastructure around the lake.

The Sennenbruderschaft (herdsmen’s brotherhood) was founded in 1598 and is still active today. Its festive highlight is the traditional herdsmen’s assembly in Innerthal, held each year on the second Sunday in September. The date may vary from year to year.

Circular route and getting there

The circular route around Lake Wägital is moderately difficult and suitable for families. It follows a paved, lightly trafficked road with a reduced speed limit and is suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. The route passes Hundloch Spring, which resembles a grotto. The circular route thus combines the lakeshore landscape with a distinctive landmark along the way.

A winding, 13-kilometre mountain road leads to Innerthal from Siebnen through the Wägital valley; another approach comes from Lake Sihl via Sattelegg. By public transport, take the SBB train to Siebnen-Wangen, then the PostBus route NFB 523. Check the current timetable before travelling.

At Lake Wägital, Seestrasse 2 in Innerthal, fishing and boat rental are available. If you plan to take advantage of either option, check availability before you arrive.

Hiking and mountain tours

One hike starts at Lake Wägital in Innerthal and initially follows a road towards Gwürzwald. It then continues along a varied unpaved trail to Schwarzenegg. From there, the impressive limestone walls of the Bockmattli Towers come into view.

The SAC normal route from Lake Wägital near Innerthal to the Bockmattli Hut starts at the post office in Innerthal, at an elevation of 906 metres. It is rated T1 and takes 1:30 to 2 hours, with 620 metres of ascent. The route goes via Schwarzenegg and then heads south along the ridge. There is also the SAC ski tour from Innerthal to Bockmattlistock: it is rated S− and takes an estimated 2:30 to 3 hours, with 1,030 metres of ascent and 1,030 metres of descent. The figures show that the ski tour takes longer and has a greater elevation gain and loss than the ascent to the hut.

Discover more destinations: Tuggen, Lachen, Wangen, Reichenburg, Vorderthal

Go to the main travel overview: March.